EVERGREEN goalkeeper Shay Given has taken stock of his impressive early-season form for Villa but reflected: “There’s room for improvement.”

Given has become an instant fans’ favourite at Villa Park with his shot-stopping skills already earning the claret and blues points.

But the 35-year-old, who will be in action in Ireland’s crucial Euro 2012 qualifying play-off in Estonia tonight, wants to be even better.

“Football is all about what you do on the pitch,” said Given. “No matter what you might say, fans judge you on performances and that’s the way it should be.

“For me, it was just about playing again so I didn’t worry who had been in goal before me. The important thing was to prove I’m still a Premier League goalkeeper and it’s going well.

“I’m pretty happy with the way things have gone so far but there’s always room for improvement. You always want to become better and I’ll keep trying to do that. I like to think I have plenty of years left in me and I’m trying to do my best for Villa.

“I’m part of a team and we’re working hard to get a few more victories and push ourselves up the table.

“I just wish we had picked up a few more points but I’m really enjoying being at the club and I’ve been made very welcome by the players, the staff and especially the fans. They have been great, both home and away.’’

Given is hoping his close relationship for club and country with Villa defender Richard Dunne can help Ireland get through tonight’s tie and the return leg in Dublin on Tuesday night.

“Richard has been fantastic, both for Ireland and for Villa, and he helped me to settle in here,” says Given, who is his country’s most-capped player with 118.

“We go back a long way and have a good friendship. Hopefully we can do the right thing against Estonia and reach next summer’s finals.”

Given joined Villa for £3.5million from Manchester City in the summer, agreeing a five-year deal which will take him into his 40s, like predecessor Brad Friedel.

“I would love to play past 40,” he added. “You look at people like Brad and it gives you inspiration. Edwin Van Der Sar was 40 when he was playing for Manchester United last season and he had one of his best seasons.

“Hopefully I can stay injury-free and on top of my game. I’d like to play as long as I can. I like to think I have plenty of years left. I’m trying to do my best for Villa.

“Goalkeepers normally play for longer than outfield players. Fitness is important to us but we don’t have to cover as much distance around the pitch. The 18-yard box isn’t that big!

“I used to play outfield when I was younger. I was a centre-forward and I was top scorer for my school team when I was 14.

“I was very proud of that but I felt I had a better chance as a goalkeeper and I think I made the right decision!”